MEMORIALS
Loss is among the most difficult of life experiences.
We know we can't make it easier, but we can—and we want to—be with people experiencing seasons of pain and loss.
One way we can help is by planning a memorial service for your loved one or friend. This guide is intended to help in the pre-planning so you will be better prepared when you meet with our funeral coordinator. It is helpful to remember that a memorial is, first and foremost, a worship service. Thus, the primary focus is on Jesus Christ and His grace. Our prayer is that faith in Christ will be renewed as the deceased is remembered.
The structure of a memorial service at Grace Lutheran Church includes the following elements:
HYMNS: there are normally three or four hymns, one at the beginning and at the end, and one or two in the middle; popular selections include Amazing Grace, Beautiful Savior, Blessed Assurance, How Great Thou Art, It Is Well With My Soul, What A Friend We Have In Jesus, and Great Is Thy Faithfulness, but any selection of Christian music is acceptable. Grace soloists are available.
SCRIPTURE READING: typically three passages selected by the family are read; popular selections include Psalm 23, Psalm 91:1-2, John 14:1-3, I Thessalonians 4:17, Revelations 21:1-7. We encourage the use of any passages that were specifically meaningful to the deceased.
APOSTLE'S CREED: a brief statement of the Christian faith.
LORD'S PRAYER: the prayer Jesus taught us to pray to our Father in heaven.
SHARING TIME: an opportunity for family and friends to talk positively about the deceased.
PASTOR'S MESSAGE: remembering the deceased and reflecting on their life.
COMMENDATION: commending the deceased to the Lord's care and keeping.
Our funeral coordinators are here to help you design a service meaningful to you.
Main Contact: Connie Randall [714-401-5236 or crandall2@socal.rr.com]
* We offer audio CDs and video DVDs of the memorial, as well as the ability to stream video from the service on our website for your family and friends to watch from around the world.
GRIEF SUPPORT: If you or someone you love is battling serious illness or grieving the death of someone close, please don't hesitate to contact us with any needs. From visiting and praying to walking through the grieving process, we are here to help. We offer a Grief Support Group that provides a safe place to process.
Main Contact: Pastor Howell Foster [714-962-1569 or hfoster001@socal.rr.com].